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Child Psychology graduate programs feature a holistic curriculum that can lead to rewarding career opportunities in therapy and counseling to help children and adolescents with mental health challenges, behavioral disorders, and developmental issues.
On average, adolescent psychology programs are graduate-level academic programs that can be completed within two to three years. The program opens several job prospects focusing on helping young people with academic success, crisis intervention, mental health awareness, and child advocacy.
A master’s program is also a crucial requirement to becoming a legally licensed psychologist, which also requires a doctorate credential. Master of Science (MS) and Master of Arts (MA) prepare graduates for doctoral studies. However, several differences are evident between the two academic degrees.
Individuals with an innate passion for helping young people, a problem-solver attitude, excellent written and non-written communication skills, and understanding are excellent candidates to become family therapists, child/school psychologists, or mental health counselors.
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The Lowdown
Pursuing an online master’s degree in child psychology consists of a diverse range of courses that educates online graduate students about psychology and its application to youth and children. Graduate students will participate in lectures and complete classes in child development, helping them understand the different stages of child development from infancy to adolescence. Some graduate programs in child and adolescent psychology prepare graduates to obtain licensure in therapy or counseling.
Although many colleges and universities have master’s degree programs in psychology as part of their academic offerings, finding a 100% online psychology graduate program specializing in child psychology is more challenging. Luckily, a few schools offer this program without the practicum or internship requirements.
Methodology
Choosing the best online master’s in child psychology program must be aligned with the student’s academic and professional aspirations. Given that there are MA and MS degree offerings in child psychology, aspiring students must evaluate the purpose of pursuing such an academic venture.
Given the nature of the academic program, every online child and adolescent psychology program curated here is carefully selected according to the following set of criteria:
- Delivered in 100% online learning or with extremely minimal on-campus requirements that allow graduate students to complete their degrees regardless of location,
- Provides graduate students with several opportunities to save on tuition and other miscellaneous expenses, including generous financial aid programs and transfer policies,
- Taught by a team of faculty with industry-based knowledge and experiences as well as appropriate academic credentials,
- It consists of relevant child and adolescent psychology-related courses that holistically develop and educate students in analysis, research methods, research design, ethical practices, and theories.
- Offered by a regionally accredited institution, demonstrating academic standard compliance
Visit our Methodology page and see our comprehensive ranking and school selection process.
10 Best Online Master’s in Child Psychology
The Chicago School of Professional Psychology
Online Master of Arts in Psychology-Child and Adolescent Concentration
The MA in Psychology with a concentration in Child and Adolescent program equips students with the necessary skills to address complex issues that influence child behavior and development. The program offers transformative academic experiences that empower them toward more impactful practice. Candidates also enjoy maximum flexibility in schedules that allow them to balance academics, work, and personal commitments.
- Candidates have effective access to the online Global Student Dashboard. This is a one-stop-shop platform where students interact with their professors, engage with their peers and colleagues, and find their assignments, coursework, and other learning materials.
- The time-to-completion varies between 12 months (full-time) and 24 months (part-time).
- The 36-credit curriculum consists of:
- 21 credits of foundational psychology courses
- 9 credits of Child and Adolescent Concentration courses
- 6 credits of Applied Research Projects focusing on adolescents and children
- Applicants must submit their completed application form and application fee. A bachelor’s degree with at least 2.8 GPA is required, among others.
What Makes This Program Unique:
Candidates secure digital credentials after completing their MA in Psychology with a Child and Adolescent Concentration degree. The partnership between TCSPP and the Credly Acclaim platform enables eligible students to receive digital credentials. These can be highlighted in their digital resumes, email signatures, and social media platforms.
The MA program doesn’t have a traditional thesis option or internship requirements. Instead, students will accomplish the Applied Research Project throughout their academic program.
Did You Know?
The Chicago School of Professional Psychology aims to make its professional degree programs more accessible to students regardless of their financial capacity. The school offers several opportunities, including scholarships and other financial aid programs, to help students finance their graduate studies.
Erikson Institute
Online Master of Science in Child Development
The online MS in Child Development program offers three concentrations:
- Child Life
- Infancy
- Core
Each concentration helps students build new skills and knowledge that allow them to thrive in the field of child development. All candidates must complete internships.
- Candidates choose between full-time and part-time enrollment. Time-to-completion ranges between two and three years.
- The program allows candidates to customize their program of study, too, through electives.
- Candidates complete 33-36 credits depending on their chosen concentration. Self-reflective supervision seminars may also be included in the curriculum.
- The Child Life concentration’s program of study consists of didactic courses and a 600-hour internship. The concentration prepares students to become Certified Child Life Specialists in community-based medical facilities and hospitals.
- The Core concentration helps prepare students to work with children and their families in non-clinical settings.
- The Infancy concentration prepares them for the complex role of infant/family specialists.
- There are two start terms – fall and spring.
- Tuition is $1,157 per credit. Scholarships are available to help students finance their graduate studies.
What Makes This Program Unique:
Internships and fieldwork experiences are essential components of the MSCD program. Graduate students will work during the day at custom-selected internship facilities for a minimum of 15 hours weekly. The fieldwork experience is facilitated in two semesters.
Did You Know?
Erikson Institute’s commitment to providing accessible and affordable access to high-quality education has made it possible for the institution to grant more than $2M in financial and scholarships annually. Undergraduate and graduate students may be qualified for multiple scholarships at the school.
Liberty University
Online Master of Arts (MA) in Applied Psychology: Developmental Psychology
Liberty University has an MA in Applied Psychology – Developmental Psychology program that prepares graduates to work with children and adolescents in counseling settings. Regardless of academic background and work experience, candidates work toward achieving their career goals here. Plus, Liberty is well-known for its excellent degree programs in psychology.
- Candidates can complete the program in less than two years depending on the number of transfer credits and number of courses completed per term. You can transfer up to 50% of the required number of credits.
- The program features a 36-credit curriculum with 100% online courses. Each course has an eight-week duration.
- Courses include:
- Developmental Neuropsychology
- Adolescent Psychology
- Intervention and Behavioral Support
- Developmental Psychology
- Military students enjoy tuition discounts. They have no fixed login times. Due to the nature of their work, they can opt out of field experiences, internships, and practicum requirements.
What Makes This Program Unique:
Liberty University’s online MS in Child and Adolescent Developmental Psychology program enables students to gain an in-depth understanding of advanced concepts in cognitive and social psychology. The holistic curriculum explores the specific issues of human development across different lifespans.
Candidates develop a comprehensive understanding of how individuals handle social interactions, biological changes, life events, and stress. Professors share insights on psychopathology and neuropsychology in the program. All classes are taught from a biblical perspective or worldview.
Did You Know?
Tuition at Liberty University for all undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral programs hasn’t increased in 7 years. It is a non-profit university that strives to keep higher education more affordable and accessible for all students.
Southern New Hampshire University
Online Master of Science in Psychology-Child and Adolescent Psychology Concentration
Southern New Hampshire University’s online MS in Psychology program offers a concentration in Child Psychology & Development. If you’re interested in becoming a licensed psychologist or pursuing a doctorate degree in psychology, consider the program.
Candidates develop their understanding of crucial components of psychology that transform their practice as professionals. These include cognitive neuropsychology, developmental psychology, and cognitive psychology.
- The 100% online graduate program emphasizes studying ethical practices, learning theories, social psychology, cognitive psychology, and research methods.
- Distance learners aren’t required to participate in fixed-time class discussions. Candidates can then access courses and learning materials 24/7 and learn on their schedule.
- The 36-credit hour program features 12 courses including:
- Research Methods in Psychology
- Social Psychology
- Cognitive Processes
- Theories of Personality
- Ethical Practice in Psychology
- Graduate students must complete the Capstone in Psychology requirement as part of the culminating experience of the MS program.
- Interested applicants aren’t required to submit their GMAT/GRE scores during enrollment.
- Tuition is $637 per credit for regular students. Active-duty military personnel and their eligible spouses pay $470 per credit. Apply for transfer credits and financial aid for cost savings.
What Makes This Program Unique:
Instead of introducing new concepts, the capstone requirement of the MS academic program focuses on preparing students to use critical thinking, analysis, experimentation, and observation. Students also become proficient in applying scientific methods throughout their profession. The program curriculum encompasses all aspects of mental processes, including decision-making, learning, attention, language, and memory in psychology.
Did You Know?
Southern New Hampshire University is a nationally recognized academic institution for paving the way toward a more achievable, affordable, and innovative education. Since 2015, the university has been among the “Most Innovative” schools in the US News & World Report. The Online Learning Consortium also recognized SNHU as the 2017 Digital Learning inventory.
The University of Minnesota
Online Master of Arts (MA) in Applied Child and Adolescent Development
UMN’s 100% online MA in Applied Child and Adolescent Development program is offered through its College of Education and Human Development. The program offers comprehensive scholarly insights to students that explores topics in ethics, research methods, emotional and social development, and biological and cognitive development.
- The 100% online graduate program offers three specialized tracks:
- Individualized Studies
- Child Life
- Infant and Early Childhood Mental Health
- The Infant and Early Childhood Mental Health concentration provides professional guidance and developmental science background essential for applying for the Endorsement for Culturally Sensitive, Relationship-Focused Practice Promoting Infant Mental Health.
- The Child Life track explores the different aspects and theories on how children cope with the uncertainties and stress of hospitalization, disability, injury, and illness. Candidates must complete a 600-hour child life clinical internship.
- The Individualized Studies track enables candidates to succeed in interdisciplinary careers with child development at their core.
- The program features a 32-credit curriculum. Every concentration has specific concentration courses.
- Tuition per credit is $1,665.00 (part-time enrollment).
What Makes This Program Unique:
The Infant & Early Childhood Mental Health and Child Life concentrations enable graduates to earn professional certifications.
Did You Know?
Students who complete all their courses online can qualify for the Minnesota resident tuition rate. The university offers financial aid options to help graduate students finance their studies, including loans, teaching assistantships, research assistantships, grants, and fellowships.
Montclair State University
Online Master of Arts (MA) in Child Advocacy and Policy
Montclair State University has an online MA in Child Advocacy and Policy program offered through the Department of Social Work and Child Advocacy. The programs and services specialize in adolescents, children, and families.
- The 100% online program features course schedules and course content aligned with working professionals.
- The 33-credit curriculum consists of 11 courses that last between 7 and 8 weeks.
- Courses include:
- Forensic Interviewing of Children
- Family Empowerment Models
- Culturally Competent Practice in Child Advocacy
- Child Abuse and Neglect
- Child Welfare Policy
- There are three terms per year – Fall, Spring, and Summer.
- Tuition is $720 per credit. Financial aid is available.
What Makes This Program Unique:
The graduate program in Child Advocacy and Policy offers an alternative option for students who can’t commit to the complete master’s program. Aspiring students can apply for the Child Advocacy and Policy Graduate Certificate featuring five fully online courses. After completing the certificate program, students can transfer up to 15 credits toward the MA program.
Did You Know?
Montclair State University offers qualified students a way to meet their academic expenses through scholarships, grants, and loans. The university’s Office of Student Financial Aid readily assists students regarding the process and eligibility of applying for financial aid options. Various tuition payment plans are also available to help students break their tuition into monthly payments.
Bay Path University
Online Master of Science in Developmental Psychology
Bay Path University’s MS in Developmental Psychology provides a comprehensive curriculum with a solid foundation in developmental psychology. Candidates develop proficient research based skills that enable them to apply theory into practice.
- The program offers three start dates – January, May, and September.
- Candidates choose between part-time and full-time enrollment. All courses are delivered online regardless of enrollment.
- The 36-credit program has two components. First, there are 12 courses including Human Lifespan Development, Family Systems, and Trauma & Crisis Intervention. Second, an approved 160-hour fieldwork placement.
- Admission requirements include:
- Completed application form
- Official undergraduate and graduate transcripts
- 300 to 500-word essay
- Current CV/resume
- Two letters of recommendation
- Signed program requirement form
No GRE and GMAT scores are required for admission to the graduate program. Tuition is $925 per credit.
What Makes This Program Unique:
The MS in Developmental Psychology program features an interdisciplinary curriculum but has a strong emphasis on developmental psychology. Candidates develop their presentation and communication skills, too. Their education enables them to explore issues related to family, the environment, sexual identity, gender, and culture.
Did You Know?
Bay Path University is home to The American Women’s College (TAWC). The online college specifically supports adult women pursuing higher education. Bay Path University itself is an independent, non-profit institution that advocates for women-focused education. As proof of its commitment, it’s a member of the Women’s College Coalition.
Walden University
Online Master of Science in Developmental Psychology-Child and Adolescent Development
Walden University’s MS in Developmental Psychology with a concentration in Child and Adolescent Development program emphasizes practical applications of theory. Candidates strive to make a positive impact on addressing the challenges that children and adolescents face today.
- Applicants must have a bachelor’s degree, at least, to be considered for admission. Official transcripts are also a must along with a completed online application.
- This is a career-oriented program designed for working professionals who want the flexibility and convenience of online courses.
- Candidates must complete the academic requirements of the 48-quarter credit curriculum. The coursework consists of 33 credits of core courses and 15 credits of specialization courses.
- Note that the program isn’t intended to prepare graduates to become counseling professionals or licensed psychologists.
- The time-to-completion is as few as 15 months. Transfer credits and more credits completed will shorten time-to-degree.
What Makes This Program Unique:
The Child and Adolescent Development concentration is only one of many specializations. This emphasizes modern and relevant issues faced by children in the digital age. Candidates apply the latest research methods and theories on health issues, behavior analysis, abnormal psychology, and child development to improve the well-being of adolescents and children in families, communities, and schools.
Did You Know?
Graduates interested in consulting, researching, and teaching can accelerate their progress toward a doctorate by applying their academic credits to the Ph.D. in Developmental Psychology program at Walden.
Capella University
Online Master of Science in Psychology-Child and Adolescent Development
Capella University offers a 100% online MS in Psychology specializing in Child & Adolescent Development program. Candidates prepare for career success through advanced skills development, particularly in facilitating positive outcomes for families, adolescents, and children. The program features a competency-based learning model where candidates apply valuable and new capabilities to their professions.
- Candidates must complete four core courses, six specialization courses, and one integrative project to graduate with an MS degree.
- The university offers students the option to pursue either the FlexPath (27 program points) or GuidedPath ((53 program credits).
- The FlexPath learning format features a flat tuition fee per session. Candidates can set their schedules and deadlines. There’s no need to participate in classroom discussions, but it’s strongly encouraged.
- The admissions requirements include a bachelor’s degree, official transcripts, a valid government-issued ID, and a non-refundable application fee.
- Courses include:
- Adolescent Psychology
- Child Psychology
- Lifespan Development
- Advocacy in Child and Adolescent Development
- Human Prenatal Development
- Candidates can save on tuition by choosing the accelerated route ($14,750). The standard pace costs $20,650 while it’s $32,450 for the slower pace.
What Makes This Program Unique:
Since Capella offers the FlexPath learning format, students can enroll in one or two courses at a time, allowing them to take as many courses as they prefer in 12 weeks. They will no longer have to wait as soon as they finish a particular course. Candidates who didn’t qualify for the FlexPath can enroll in the GuidedPath. Once they have completed one course in the GuidedPath and with a minimum of 2.8 GPA, students can transition to the FlexPath.
Did You Know?
Capella University offers several ways for graduate students to save on tuition expenses. Graduate students can apply for the $2.5K Capella Progress Reward to help them finance their master’s program. The university offers tuition discounts and other benefits to veterans, Guard and Reserve members, active-duty service members, and spouses. Additionally, students can save time and money by transferring up to 15 credits into their academic degrees.
National University
Online Master of Science – Child and Adolescent Developmental Psychology
Candidates in the online MS in Child and Adolescent Developmental Psychology prepare for a fulfilling career in the service of children, adolescents, and their families. Candidates learn advanced knowledge about child and adolescent psychology including an in-depth understanding of autism spectrum disorders and ADHD.
- Candidates must complete the 30-credit program to earn the master’s degree.
- Foundational courses must be completed first before the specialization courses.
- The rigorous coursework covers topics in:
- Child and Adolescent Psychopathology
- Research Design
- Child and Adolescent Gender Development,
- Ethics in Development Psychology
- ADHD and Autistic Spectrum
- Time-to-completion is as few as 16 months for full-time students. Part-time students will have a longer time-to-completion.
- Candidates may or may not complete the 100-hour internship as a culminating experience. But it’s strongly recommended to complete the internship requirement for certification/licensure and practical learning purposes.
What Makes This Program Unique:
National University’s child and adolescent psychology graduate program is an excellent choice for busy professionals and adult students. The program offers excellent flexibility and convenience that enable them to earn a master’s degree while maintaining a good work-life balance. The 100% online academic program has no residency requirements, no group projects, and no GMAT/GRE requirement for admission.
Did You Know?
National University features a more simplified and streamlined enrollment process. Students can start their programs immediately. The school accepts and evaluates enrollment applications year-round. National University is a military-friendly institution. Active-duty service members, veterans, reserves, and their dependents report that NU offers them increased accessibility to higher education.
Professional Organizations for Child and Adolescent Psychology Students
Professional organizations typically hold an Adolescent Developmental Psychology Program that offers graduate students a variety of essential resources that help them advance their knowledge and capabilities, as well as join the workforce.
Many organizations provide child psychology students with a plethora of learning and professional platforms and services, including networking events, job listings, career development programs, access to publications and online journals, and academic resources. Some organizations also facilitate workshops, conferences, and career fairs.
Here are some of the professional organizations beneficial for students pursuing an online Master’s in Child Psychology program:
American Academy of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry
The AACAP or American Academy of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry is a professional organization that provides child and adolescent professionals with a diverse range of resources for promoting mentally healthy families, adolescents, and children. Its membership perks include the mobilization of resources, continuing studies, peer support, and collective programs.
American Counseling Association
The American Counseling Association is a non-profit professional organization that advocates the development and growth of the counseling profession. It is the country’s largest association, exclusively representing professional counselors in different practice or specialization settings.
American Psychological Association
The American Psychological Association is the most prominent professional and scientific organization consisting of over 120,000 students, consultants, clinicians, educators, and researchers as members of the association. It was established in 1892 to advocate the advancement, application, and communication of psychological knowledge and theories to improve lives and benefit communities. One of its missions is to increase public awareness of the advantages psychology provides to daily life.
Association for Psychological Science
The Association for Psychological Science is home to thousands of students, professors, practitioners, and psychological science researchers. It aims to offer a holistic understanding of the interaction between individuals and communities through the application, teaching, and research of psychological science.
National Association of School Psychologists
A professional organization, the National Association of School Psychologists advocates and represents the school psychology profession by developing effective strategies for improving students’ mental health, as well as maintaining high standards for practice and ethics. The organization sets the standards for professional ethics, credentialing, and graduation preparation.
Society of Clinical Child and Adolescent Psychology
A division of the American Psychological Association, the Society of Clinical Child and Adolescent Psychology fosters public policy, professional practice and ethics, training, and scientific inquiry in child and adolescent psychology for improving the mental health and welfare of families, youth, and children. By becoming a member, individuals have access to many benefits, including newsletter and journal subscriptions, a comprehensive website of learning resources, and student benefits.
Society of Pediatric Psychology
The Society of Pediatric Psychology publishes two essential journals in the field of pediatric psychologic, namely the Clinical Practice in Pediatric Psychology and the Journal of Pediatric Psychology. As part of the SPP, members can participate in the SPP Mentorship Program either as mentors or mentees. Individuals also enjoy access to Special Interest Groups so they can network with peers and colleagues who have the same interests in the field.
Careers for Child and Adolescent Psychology Graduates
A Master’s in Child and Adolescent Psychology often leads to a fulfilling career in social services, counseling, academia, and research. These professionals can work in a variety of settings, highlighting their treatment, diagnosing, counseling, analytical, and communication skills obtained during the graduate program in child psychology. While having a master’s degree opens a variety of career opportunities, some professional pathways require the completion of a doctorate program.
Here are some of the most common professions for graduates with a master’s degree in child and adolescent psychology:
Child Psychologists
While most child psychologist roles require doctoral degrees, completing a non-terminal master’s degree in child and adolescent psychology is the best way to pursue either a Ph.D. or PsyD in this area of discipline. Apart from the doctorate credential, graduates must also obtain a state license to become child psychologists.
Family and Child Therapists
Family and Child Therapists find work in a diverse range of work settings, evaluating their patients’ cognitive, behavioral, emotional, developmental, social, and mental health. Apart from attending to children’s mental well-being, these professionals also venture into groups, such as family dynamics.
Mental Health Counselors
Mental Health Counselors treat patients with various mental conditions, including stress, low self-esteem, anxiety, and depression. These professionals also deal with specific age groups, such as youth and children. A master’s program in child psychology or a related area of study is required to work as a mental health counselor.
School Counselors
School Counselors work with school administrators, teachers, parents, and students to help learners develop and strengthen their social and academic skills. These professionals evaluate students’ capabilities and cultivate essential life skills, including effective study habits and time management.
School counseling also entails educating students regarding emotional and social health, advising students on prospective career pathways and higher education, and helping learners cope with behavioral issues.
Many school counselors have a master’s degree in psychology or a related field and have obtained certification.
School Psychologists
Although many academic institutions require school psychologists to have doctorate degrees, many entry-level positions have similar requirements as child therapists, i.e., having a state license and a master’s degree. Depending on the student’s state, having a PsyD or Ph.D. credential is mandatory to become a school psychologist.
Licensure and Certification for Child and Adolescent Psychology Graduates
Many states require professionals in the field of psychology to be licensed. Additional certifications are essential for psychologists to demonstrate and strengthen their expertise in a specific area of interest. While mental health counselors in all states must have a license, school counselors often require an additional credentialing or state-issued license to practice.
Non-Terminal vs. Terminal Master’s in Child and Adolescent Psychology Degree Programs
Many colleges and universities offer non-terminal and terminal degree programs in child and adolescent psychology. The main difference is whether graduates want to pursue more advanced studies after completing the master’s program or start their careers as child therapists or counselors. A terminal degree program prepares students for a career after graduation, while a non-terminal degree prepares graduates for doctoral studies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the differences between an MS in Child Psychology and an MA in Child Psychology?
| Degree | Focus | Program Structure | Career Paths |
| MS in Child Psychology | Emphasizes advanced skills in data analysis, research, and scientific methodologies | With courses in statistical analysis and quantitative research methods; Capstone project or master’s thesis as a culminating requirement | Prepares candidates for jobs in research and academia as well as doctoral degrees |
| MA in Child Psychology | Focuses on applied psychology with applications in education, counseling, and related fields | Features courses in therapeutic techniques, counseling methods, and communication skills; Capstone project and/or internship as a culminating requirement | Prepares candidates for jobs in social services, education, and counseling (i.e., practice-based) |
Can I already become a child psychologist with an online master’s degree in child psychology?
No. You must earn either a Doctor of Philosophy or a Doctor of Psychology degree. Then, you can apply for licensure in your state. The licensure requirements vary between states so ask your state licensing board first.
What is the average cost of a master’s degree in child psychology?
It varies between $20,000 and $50,000 for an entire program. Actual tuition and fees vary between online programs and their financial aid opportunities. The University of Minnesota’s program is among the most expensive (without financial aid) while SNHU’s program offers affordable costs.
Summary Points
Child Psychology graduate programs provide students with comprehensive training and equip them with the essential skills for professions that deal with children. Completing the master’s program helps students pursue rewarding professions, such as behavioral therapists, child therapists, school psychologists, and child psychologists.
Although master’s in child psychology programs are rare, many online schools offer a master’s program in psychology that allows students to pursue a specialization in child and adolescent development or child psychology.
Regardless, both graduate programs feature the same curriculum in the study of the mental and behavioral processes of children and help them cope and overcome their developmental, emotional, social, and mental health problems.
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